HOLDEN is beginning to loom large in the small car market. Not only are we seeing the Astra-size, Korean-built Viva as an augmentation of its $20,000 or so contingent, and the arrival of a Daewoo-based Barina, but also the new Tigra hardtop convertible that sells below the successful Astra soft-top. The Tigra is based on the outgoing Barina and competes with the likes of Peugeot’s 206CC for a slice of the cute, compact personal car segment. Here, where appearance is virtually everything, the little Holden scores with a perky style that looks balanced roof up, or roof down – a process that takes just 18 seconds. The two-seat Tigra drives well too, fast enough with its 1.8-litre engine and nifty enough in terms of handling. The interior is spacious for two, and the Tigra scores well for practicality, with plenty of storage space in a surprising boot and a briefcase-size pocket behind the seats. For cheeky charm, it’s not a bad deal for $35,000. It’s surprising there’s no auto though.